The Imo State Police Command has dismissed as false a viral social media report alleging that suspected herdsmen attacked and set a student hostel ablaze near the Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, trapping more than 80 students inside.
The command described the claim, which circulated on Facebook on Saturday, as misleading and capable of causing unnecessary panic among residents, insisting that no such incident occurred.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP HenryOkoye, urged members of the public to disregard the report and avoid circulating unverified information capable of disrupting public peace.
“The Imo State Police Command has noted a misleading publication circulated on Facebook today, 5th July, 2026, alleging that Fulani herdsmen set a student hostel in Nekede, Owerri, on fire, trapping over 80 students inside the burning building,” Okoye said.
He maintained that the publication was entirely fabricated and warned that the spread of false information could incite fear and unnecessary anxiety among the public.
“The Command wishes to state unequivocally that the report is entirely false, misleading, and capable of causing unnecessary panic among residents.”
Okoye appealed to residents and social media users to exercise caution by confirming the authenticity of information before sharing it, stressing that misinformation could fuel panic and threaten public order.
“The Command therefore urges members of the public to disregard the false publication and refrain from sharing unverified information capable of causing fear, panic, or public disorder.”
He further advised citizens to rely on credible and official sources for information relating to security matters.
“Citizens are advised to always verify the authenticity of information through credible and official sources before sharing it on social media or other platforms.”
The police spokesperson reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state, assuring residents that it would continue to provide accurate and timely information on issues affecting public safety.
“The Imo State Police Command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents and will continue to provide timely and accurate information on matters relating to public safety,” the statement added.
